by Dawn Furnas, NJBIZ
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Health care leaders “know that our responsibility to the communities we serve extends well beyond the walls of our hospitals and medical offices,” says Al Maghazehe, president and CEO of Capital Health.
That’s why the Trenton-based health care system announced a $10 million project goal Sept. 22 to benefit the community surrounding its flagship hospital on Brunswick Avenue.
The Trenton Neighborhood Initiative kicks off with a $2.5 million leadership gift from the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation, as well as $1 million from Capital Health itself.
“Having a healthy community depends on more than just having a great hospital,” John Damonti, president of the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation, said in a statement. “Understanding this, Capital Health is taking an innovative and comprehensive approach by addressing fundamental elements of health and wellbeing: education and housing. We are delighted to support the Trenton Neighborhood Initiative …”
What’s in the plan?
Capital Health reached out to the Trenton Health Team to help develop and execute the multiyear project, which will include much more than just health care initiatives.
According to organizers, the effort will seek to make strides in four key areas – Live, Work, Grow and Connect – and will include programs focusing on areas such as home ownership and rehabilitation, job training and employment, children’s and family’s well-being, and digital equity.
The programs available will be determined by input from residents, data and recommendations from existing neighborhood plans, and industry best practices.
“The commitment of Capital Health to Trenton has endured for over a century and is something we are resolute in,” said Samuel Plumeri Jr., chairman of the Capital Healthcare Inc. board of trustees. “Having grown up in North Trenton, it is personally very meaningful for me to be a part of such a significant commitment to the neighborhood and those who live here.”
What’s first?
Offerings will begin in phases. The first two – programs supporting homeownership and education – launch in the coming weeks.
With help from New Jersey Community Capital, the Trenton Neighborhood Initiative Homebuyer Assistance Program will provide grants of up to $20,000 for first-time homebuyers in Trenton, along with homeownership and financial counseling. In partnership with Mercer County Community College, the initiative will offer Trenton residents scholarships to pursue a higher education degree, notably in the health care field.
What comes next?
Capital Health launched a campaign seeking additional philanthropic support from corporate partners and individuals for the planned five-year, $10 million effort.
Organizers invite the community to learn more about the initiative during a kickoff event taking place from 3-6 p.m. Sept. 24, at Sprout U, located at 27 E. Paul Ave. in Trenton. The event will feature food, activities and more information about upcoming programs.
